Best Campgrounds near Lewiston, CA
Campgrounds surrounding Lewiston, California span diverse terrain near Trinity Lake and the Trinity River, providing options from developed facilities to primitive sites. Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort offers full hookups for RVs with amenities including showers, drinking water, and a market, while also providing spaces for tent campers. Mary Smith Campground presents a more rustic experience with lakefront access but fewer amenities. Cline Gulch offers free dispersed camping on BLM land for those seeking a more primitive experience. The area includes a mix of privately operated and public lands, with several sites offering direct water access to Lewiston Lake or the Trinity River.
Access to most campgrounds remains available year-round, though seasonal considerations affect water levels and temperature comfort. Many established campgrounds like Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort operate throughout the year, while others like Douglas City Campground operate from mid-May through October. Summer temperatures can reach above 90°F, making water proximity valuable for cooling off. Winter brings cooler conditions but fewer crowds at year-round sites. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with better coverage near towns and spotty or nonexistent service in more remote areas. According to one visitor at Douglas City Campground, "The days were very hot - probably 100° - and there are no hook-ups so we siesta'd in the afternoons. The river is gorgeous, cold, clean, and refreshing."
The Trinity River provides a central feature for many camping experiences in the region. Several campgrounds offer direct river access with sites situated mere feet from the water. One camper noted that Douglas City Campground has "direct river access, many good sites, full bathrooms, available water, easy to get to and quiet." Sites with water proximity tend to fill quickly during summer weekends. Wildlife encounters are common throughout the area, with bear-proof storage available at many sites. Tent campers particularly appreciate the Mary Smith Campground for its lake views and swimming access. Shade availability varies by campground, with riverside sites generally offering more tree coverage than those in open areas. Campgrounds closer to the Trinity River often provide the sound of flowing water as a natural sleeping aid.
